The loss of a well-known Kiwi musician and young father on Sunday has left his family, friends and community devastated by his death.
Jordan Gow died in a head-on two-vehicle crash in Burnside, Canterbury after his car was hit by a driver on the wrong side of the road with their lights off.
Gow, who left behind a partner and young daughter, was a well-known drummer and singer in several metal groups including Evenflow, Unite The Silence, Arcadian NZ and Setting Fire to Stacey.
His family told Stuff the loss of their son has left them devastated.
"We're just really numb, every now and then it comes back and reminds you, it's horrible. I'm truly devastated and heartbroken," mother Penny Violetto said.
"He was also my rock to lean on when times got tough. He was more like a very close friend to my heart, as well as my awesome son."
"I didn't believe it, I was in shock, it was all surreal and a bit weird, like unbelievable," father Murray Gow told Stuff.
"I still can't believe it, to be honest, I'll never see him again."
A Givealittle page has been set up by Arcadian NZ's former vocalist Gareth Fleck, who wrote Gow was "loved by so many".
"The news of Jordan's passing has shocked the community and this fundraiser is to help his family with the funeral costs and any other financial cost that they may have," he wrote.
"Jordan was the definition of a person that could light up a whole room. He was always there to whip out a guitar and get the whole room singing along, his passion for music unparalleled. You could hear his laugh and singing voice from blocks away."
Fleck wrote Gow was a "natural-born leader" who always spoke his mind.
"Jordan is loved by so many, his passion for music truly touched us all. He was a loving father of Ashlyn, partner to Amy Jones, brother to Josh, son to Penny & Murray Gow and friend to many," he said.
"Let's be there for Jordan and his family in this devastating time, Jordan was always there to lend a hand to those in need. This is our time to lend our hand to him and his family. Jordan will be truly missed."
His grieving friends have posted messages of support to the page.
"A beautiful, kind & talented brother :( I love you man, thanks for the beautiful sunrise this morning x," one wrote.
"My heart is bleeding for the family and friends of this beautiful man," another said.
